A Russian gay couple has requested asylum in the United States after authorities launched a criminal investigation over their adopted children, their lawyer said Thursday.

The two men, Andrei Vaganov and Yevgeny Yerofeyev, and their two adopted sons are now in Seattle and requested asylum in the US this month, lawyer Maksim Olenichev said.

"They like it there," said Olenichev, a lawyer with Vykhod (Coming Out) support group based in the northwestern Russian city of Saint Petersburg, which has been helping the family.

He said the boys, aged 12 and 13 are going to school in the US and "the initial period of adaptation is going well."

The pair fled Russia this summer under huge pressure after the authorities opened an unprecedented criminal case accusing social workers of negligence for allowing the family to bring up the children.&nbsp;

The case was opened after one of the boys told doctors that his adoptive father, Vaganov, lived with a male partner.

The Investigative Committee said Moscow social workers were suspected of criminal negligence for allowing the two boys to live in the family from 2010.

This was the first such case ever launched in Russia.

The men are being treated as witnesses in the case and their supporters say they risked losing the children.

The Investigative Committee has accused the men of giving the children "distorted ideas about family values, harming their health and moral and spiritual growth."

The authorities questioned the couple's relatives and also searched their flat after they had left the country.&nbsp;

Even though Russia decriminalized homosexuality in 1993, it remains a deeply homophobic society.&nbsp;

A rise in violence against gay people has been seen since 2013, when Russia passed a law banning gay "propaganda" to minors.

Russia has banned adoption by single-sex married couples or unmarried people from foreign countries where gay marriage is allowed, but since legalized unions are not possible in Russia, there is no law banning adoption by a gay couple.

Andrei Petrov, head of Stimul, a legal aid service for LGBT people in Moscow, said he hoped the family would be able to start a new life in the United States.

"I am convinced that a loving family is always better than growing up even in the best orphanage," Petrov said in a statement.

He condemned "attempts to destroy the family" by the Russian authorities, saying these were "based on prejudice."

In recent months, Russian LGBT rights groups have reported a new wave of purges and pressure against gay people.

In July, a 41-year-old LGBT activist, Yelena Grigoryeva, was found dead in Saint Petersburg after she received repeated threats.

A Russian gay couple has requested asylum in the United States after authorities launched a criminal investigation over their adopted children, their lawyer said Thursday.

A Russian gay couple has requested asylum in the United States after authorities launched a criminal investigation over their adopted children, their lawyer said Thursday. The two men, Andrei Vaganov and Yevgeny Yerofeyev, and their two adopted sons are now in Seattle and requested asylum in the US this month, lawyer Maksim Olenichev said. "They like it there," said Olenichev, a lawyer with Vykhod (Coming Out) support group based in the northwestern Russian city of Saint Petersburg, which has been helping the family. He said the boys, aged 12 and 13 are going to school in the US and "the initial period of adaptation is going well." The pair fled Russia this summer under huge pressure after the authorities opened an unprecedented criminal case accusing social workers of negligence for allowing the family to bring up the children. The case was opened after one of the boys told doctors that his adoptive father, Vaganov, lived with a male partner. The Investigative Committee said Moscow social workers were suspected of criminal negligence for allowing the two boys to live in the family from 2010. This was the first such case ever launched in Russia. The men are being treated as witnesses in the case and their supporters say they risked losing the children. The Investigative Committee has accused the men of giving the children "distorted ideas about family values, harming their health and moral and spiritual growth." The authorities questioned the couple's relatives and also searched their flat after they had left the country. Even though Russia decriminalized homosexuality in 1993, it remains a deeply homophobic society. A rise in violence against gay people has been seen since 2013, when Russia passed a law banning gay "propaganda" to minors. Russia has banned adoption by single-sex married couples or unmarried people from foreign countries where gay marriage is allowed, but since legalized unions are not possible in Russia, there is no law banning adoption by a gay couple. Andrei Petrov, head of Stimul, a legal aid service for LGBT people in Moscow, said he hoped the family would be able to start a new life in the United States. "I am convinced that a loving family is always better than growing up even in the best orphanage," Petrov said in a statement. He condemned "attempts to destroy the family" by the Russian authorities, saying these were "based on prejudice." In recent months, Russian LGBT rights groups have reported a new wave of purges and pressure against gay people. In July, a 41-year-old LGBT activist, Yelena Grigoryeva, was found dead in Saint Petersburg after she received repeated threats.

Russian gay couple under investigation for adoption request United States asylum

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday reinforced his support for Venezuelan opposition politician Juan Guaido on Wednesday, praising Latin American leaders who back him, boosting aid funding and barring members of President Nicolas Maduro's government from entering the United States.

In a meeting on the sidelines of the annual United Nations gathering of world leaders, Trump told Latin American presidents who recognise Guaido as Venezuela's rightful president that they were part of a "historic coalition."

For more than eight months they have been trying to oust Maduro, who has overseen a dramatic economic collapse and is accused of corruption, human rights violations and rigging the 2018 presidential election.

The New York meeting was part of the administration's efforts to keep Venezuela "high on the international agenda," a senior US State Department official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said on Monday, pushing back on perceptions that the US commitment to Venezuela was waning.

But it was not clear what further options Washington had left. The opposition delegation came to the UN General Assembly in search of a breakthrough in its eight-month power struggle with Maduro, but is more focused on getting the European Union to sanction Maduro officials with assets stashed in European countries.

The State Department said it would provide $36 million in humanitarian aid in Venezuela to go toward an underfunded UN program aiming at raising $223 million to serve 2.6 million people. Previous aid efforts within Venezuela have been marked by concerns Maduro would interfere with distribution.

"We're giving millions and millions of dollars in aid, not that we want to, from the Maduro standpoint, but we have to," Trump said during a news conference on Wednesday afternoon. "People are dying, they have no food, they (have) no water, they have no nothing."

It is also providing Guaido with $52 million to fund his parallel government's operations - much of which was diverted from money previously destined for Central American countries, US Agency for International Development (USAID) director Mark Green said on Wednesday.

Venezuela plunged into a deep political crisis in January when Guaido, the leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, assumed a rival presidency, arguing Maduro was illegitimate. He has been recognised as president by dozens of countries, including the United States and neighbouring Colombia.

Guaido and his Latin American allies are increasingly seeking to portray Maduro as a threat to regional stability to galvanize countries into stepping up the pressure. During his speech to the General Assembly on Wednesday, Colombian President Ivan Duque said he would provide the United Nations with a dossier proving Maduro was harbouring armed Colombian rebels.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza, who is expected to address the assembly on Thursday, called Duque's speech "shameful." Maduro calls Guaido a coup-mongering puppet of the United States and retains the support of allies such as Cuba, Russia and China.

Pressure on Europe

Washington's travel ban applied to government officials with the rank of vice minister or above, military members with a rank of colonel or above, and members of a pro-government legislature called the Constituent Assembly.

It also banned anyone who acts "on behalf of or in support of" Maduro and those deriving "financial benefit" from the government, and their immediate family members. US officials have previously said such measures were effective because "these people's wives can't shop in the US"

That move was likely to raise even more pressure on Europe. While the EU has sanctioned several individual members of Maduro's government, the opposition, the United States and other Latin American countries have called on it to do more.

A group of European and Latin American countries met to discuss Venezuela on the sidelines of the United Nations on Wednesday afternoon, but participants declined to take questions on the way out and did not immediately issue a joint statement.

Spanish Foreign Minister Josep Borrell, the incoming top diplomat for the EU, said during the meeting that the "end of Venezuela's crisis should result from a peaceful and negotiated path" leading to free elections, according to an EU statement. The statement did not mention any new European sanctions.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday reinforced his support for Venezuelan opposition politician Juan Guaido on Wednesday, praising Latin American leaders who back him, boosting aid funding and barring members of President Nicolas Maduro's government from entering the United States.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday reinforced his support for Venezuelan opposition politician Juan Guaido on Wednesday, praising Latin American leaders who back him, boosting aid funding and barring members of President Nicolas Maduro's government from entering the United States. In a meeting on the sidelines of the annual United Nations gathering of world leaders, Trump told Latin American presidents who recognise Guaido as Venezuela's rightful president that they were part of a "historic coalition." For more than eight months they have been trying to oust Maduro, who has overseen a dramatic economic collapse and is accused of corruption, human rights violations and rigging the 2018 presidential election. The New York meeting was part of the administration's efforts to keep Venezuela "high on the international agenda," a senior US State Department official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said on Monday, pushing back on perceptions that the US commitment to Venezuela was waning. But it was not clear what further options Washington had left. The opposition delegation came to the UN General Assembly in search of a breakthrough in its eight-month power struggle with Maduro, but is more focused on getting the European Union to sanction Maduro officials with assets stashed in European countries. The State Department said it would provide $36 million in humanitarian aid in Venezuela to go toward an underfunded UN program aiming at raising $223 million to serve 2.6 million people. Previous aid efforts within Venezuela have been marked by concerns Maduro would interfere with distribution. "We're giving millions and millions of dollars in aid, not that we want to, from the Maduro standpoint, but we have to," Trump said during a news conference on Wednesday afternoon. "People are dying, they have no food, they (have) no water, they have no nothing." It is also providing Guaido with $52 million to fund his parallel government's operations - much of which was diverted from money previously destined for Central American countries, US Agency for International Development (USAID) director Mark Green said on Wednesday. Venezuela plunged into a deep political crisis in January when Guaido, the leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, assumed a rival presidency, arguing Maduro was illegitimate. He has been recognised as president by dozens of countries, including the United States and neighbouring Colombia. Guaido and his Latin American allies are increasingly seeking to portray Maduro as a threat to regional stability to galvanize countries into stepping up the pressure. During his speech to the General Assembly on Wednesday, Colombian President Ivan Duque said he would provide the United Nations with a dossier proving Maduro was harbouring armed Colombian rebels. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza, who is expected to address the assembly on Thursday, called Duque's speech "shameful." Maduro calls Guaido a coup-mongering puppet of the United States and retains the support of allies such as Cuba, Russia and China. Pressure on Europe Washington's travel ban applied to government officials with the rank of vice minister or above, military members with a rank of colonel or above, and members of a pro-government legislature called the Constituent Assembly. It also banned anyone who acts "on behalf of or in support of" Maduro and those deriving "financial benefit" from the government, and their immediate family members. US officials have previously said such measures were effective because "these people's wives can't shop in the US" That move was likely to raise even more pressure on Europe. While the EU has sanctioned several individual members of Maduro's government, the opposition, the United States and other Latin American countries have called on it to do more. A group of European and Latin American countries met to discuss Venezuela on the sidelines of the United Nations on Wednesday afternoon, but participants declined to take questions on the way out and did not immediately issue a joint statement. Spanish Foreign Minister Josep Borrell, the incoming top diplomat for the EU, said during the meeting that the "end of Venezuela's crisis should result from a peaceful and negotiated path" leading to free elections, according to an EU statement. The statement did not mention any new European sanctions.

Trump bans Venezuelan officials from US, boosts aid in support of opposition

Howdy, America! - Key highlights of PM Modi's US visit

External Affairs Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-problem-talking-to-pakistan-but-have-problem-talking-to-terroristan-jaishankar-251859">S Jaishankar</a> on Wednesday appreciated the United States for doing enormous good in Afghanistan but said that "those gains are not being reflected in general discourse".

"An enormous good was done in Afghanistan. Today I don't see that reflected in the discourse, now how do we maintain those gains? To me, that's the big challenge," the External Affairs Minister said during a conversation at Council on Foreign Relations here with former US ambassador to India Frank G Wisner.

"I have visited Afghanistan and I have seen that the Afghans have left the Taliban-dominated areas and re-habited the areas under the US control. So how would you protect the gains of pluralism in different ways&nbsp;including civil liberties, women's rights, and child education? And that is a big challenge," the minister said.

He added, "We do understand the compulsions on the part of the United States."

The minister further touched upon the present scenario of turmoil ongoing in the war-torn country especially after the breakdown of the peace talks between the US and Taliban earlier this month, despite months of continuous negotiations on the two sides.

"The US had an 18-year military commitment in Afghanistan. And frankly, I can't think any other country is capable of such a commitment," Jaishankar said in response to a question on Afghanistan being of huge strategic importance for India and how does the country balances in its north-west frontiers in the wake of the US negotiations with the Taliban.

Following the breakdown of talks between the US and Taliban, the Trump administration had further called for a pull out of nearly 5000 troops from Afghanistan.

Addressing a query on the American troops' removal amid such volatile conditions, Jaishankar noted, "So, the first point I would make is even if the Americans are pulling out or negotiating, I think, countries like us should appreciate the US for the work it has done to stabilise that region. That has been for the larger benefit of the region."

"I think the best bet will be to trust the Afghans more. They have capabilities there," he stressed.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday appreciated the United States for doing enormous good in Afghanistan but said that "those gains are not being reflected in general discourse".

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday appreciated the United States for doing enormous good in Afghanistan but said that "those gains are not being reflected in general discourse". "An enormous good was done in Afghanistan. Today I don't see that reflected in the discourse, now how do we maintain those gains? To me, that's the big challenge," the External Affairs Minister said during a conversation at Council on Foreign Relations here with former US ambassador to India Frank G Wisner. "I have visited Afghanistan and I have seen that the Afghans have left the Taliban-dominated areas and re-habited the areas under the US control. So how would you protect the gains of pluralism in different ways including civil liberties, women's rights, and child education? And that is a big challenge," the minister said. He added, "We do understand the compulsions on the part of the United States." The minister further touched upon the present scenario of turmoil ongoing in the war-torn country especially after the breakdown of the peace talks between the US and Taliban earlier this month, despite months of continuous negotiations on the two sides. "The US had an 18-year military commitment in Afghanistan. And frankly, I can't think any other country is capable of such a commitment," Jaishankar said in response to a question on Afghanistan being of huge strategic importance for India and how does the country balances in its north-west frontiers in the wake of the US negotiations with the Taliban. Following the breakdown of talks between the US and Taliban, the Trump administration had further called for a pull out of nearly 5000 troops from Afghanistan. Addressing a query on the American troops' removal amid such volatile conditions, Jaishankar noted, "So, the first point I would make is even if the Americans are pulling out or negotiating, I think, countries like us should appreciate the US for the work it has done to stabilise that region. That has been for the larger benefit of the region." "I think the best bet will be to trust the Afghans more. They have capabilities there," he stressed.

Enormous good done by US in Afghanistan: Jaishankar

Impeaching US president: How the process works

The United States led more than 30 countries on Tuesday in condemning what it called&nbsp;China's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-day-in-the-life-of-uighurs-251734">"horrific campaign of&nbsp;repression"</a> against&nbsp;Muslims&nbsp;in the western region of Xinjiang at an event on the sidelines of the annual UN&nbsp;General Assembly that was denounced by&nbsp;China.

In highlighting abuses against ethnic Uighurs&nbsp;and other&nbsp;Muslims&nbsp;in&nbsp;China, Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan said the United Nations and its member states had "a singular responsibility to speak up when survivor after survivor recounts the horrors of state&nbsp;repression."

Sullivan said it was incumbent on UN member states to ensure the world body was able to closely monitor human rights abuses by&nbsp;China&nbsp;and added that it must seek "immediate, unhindered, and unmonitored" access to Xinjiang for the UN&nbsp;High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCR).

Sullivan said Tuesday's event was co-sponsored by Canada, Germany, the Netherlands and Britain, and was joined by more than 30 UN&nbsp;states, representatives of the European Union and more than 20 nongovernmental organizations, as well as Uighur victims.

"We invite others to join the international effort to demand and compel an immediate end to&nbsp;China’s horrific campaign of&nbsp;repression," he said. "History will judge the international community for how we respond to this attack on human rights and fundamental freedoms."

Paola Pampaloni, deputy managing director for Asia of the European External Action Service, said the EU was "alarmed" by the situation and also urged "meaningful" access to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-crackdown-in-xinjiang-for-uighur-refugees-freedom-means-losing-family-251676">Xinjiang</a>.

"We are concerned about ... information about mistreatment and torture... China&nbsp;is always inviting us to the camps under their conditions, we are in negotiations right now for terms and conditions for free access", she said.

On Monday&nbsp;US&nbsp;President Donald Trump called for an end to religious persecution at another event on the sidelines of the UN&nbsp;gathering. He reiterated his comments in a speech to the General Assembly gathering of world leaders on Tuesday.

"Americans will never .. tire in our effort to promote freedom of worship and religion. We want and support religious liberty for all," he said.

Trump, who has been cautious about&nbsp;upsetting&nbsp;China&nbsp;on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/human-rights-watch-report-on-uighurs-full-of-prejudice-says-china-164872">human rights</a> issues&nbsp;while making a major trade deal with Beijing a major priority, said religious freedom was under growing threat around the world but fell short of specifically mentioning the Uighur situation.

"Volume is coming up at a pace that we hope that the Beijing government recognises not only the US&nbsp;but the global concern about this situation," David Stilwell,&nbsp;US Assistant Secretary, Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs told reporters at a briefing.

"We will see how that plays out and how Beijing reacts and take it from there", he added.

A representative for the Chinese delegation to the UN&nbsp;General Assembly accused Washington of violating the UN&nbsp;Charter by criticizing&nbsp;China.

The United Nations says at least 1 million ethnic Uighurs&nbsp;and other&nbsp;Muslims&nbsp;have been detained in what&nbsp;China&nbsp;describes as "vocational training centres" to stamp out extremism and give people new skills.

Sullivan said the United States had received "credible reports of deaths, forced labour, torture, and other cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment" in the camps.

He said there were also many reports that the Chinese government forces detainees to renounce their ethnic identities as well as their culture and religion.

Though&nbsp;US&nbsp;officials have ramped up criticism of&nbsp;China's measures in Xinjiang, it has refrained from responding with sanctions, amid on-again, off-again talks to resolve a bitter, costly trade war.

At the same time, it has criticized other countries, including some Muslim states, for not doing enough or for backing&nbsp;China's approach in Xinjiang.

Rishat Abbas, the brother of Uighur physician Gulshan Abbas, who was abducted from her home in Urumchi in September 2018, told Tuesday's event that "millions of Uighurs&nbsp;are becoming collateral damage to international trade policies, enabling&nbsp;China&nbsp;to continue to threaten our freedoms around the world, enable it to continue its police state.”

UN&nbsp;human rights chief Michelle Bachelet has repeatedly pushed&nbsp;China&nbsp;to grant the United Nations access to investigate reports of disappearances and arbitrary detentions, particularly of&nbsp;Muslims&nbsp;in Xinjiang.

China's envoy in Geneva said in June that he hoped Bachelet would visit&nbsp;China, including Xinjiang. Bachelet's office said in June that it was discussing "full access" with&nbsp;China.

The United States led more than 30 countries on Tuesday in condemning what it called China's "horrific campaign of repression" against Muslims in the western region of Xinjiang at an event on the sidelines of the annual UN General Assembly that was denounced by China.

The United States led more than 30 countries on Tuesday in condemning what it called China's "horrific campaign of repression" against Muslims in the western region of Xinjiang at an event on the sidelines of the annual UN General Assembly that was denounced by China. In highlighting abuses against ethnic Uighurs and other Muslims in China, Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan said the United Nations and its member states had "a singular responsibility to speak up when survivor after survivor recounts the horrors of state repression." Sullivan said it was incumbent on UN member states to ensure the world body was able to closely monitor human rights abuses by China and added that it must seek "immediate, unhindered, and unmonitored" access to Xinjiang for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCR). Sullivan said Tuesday's event was co-sponsored by Canada, Germany, the Netherlands and Britain, and was joined by more than 30 UN states, representatives of the European Union and more than 20 nongovernmental organizations, as well as Uighur victims. "We invite others to join the international effort to demand and compel an immediate end to China’s horrific campaign of repression," he said. "History will judge the international community for how we respond to this attack on human rights and fundamental freedoms." Paola Pampaloni, deputy managing director for Asia of the European External Action Service, said the EU was "alarmed" by the situation and also urged "meaningful" access to Xinjiang. "We are concerned about ... information about mistreatment and torture... China is always inviting us to the camps under their conditions, we are in negotiations right now for terms and conditions for free access", she said. On Monday US President Donald Trump called for an end to religious persecution at another event on the sidelines of the UN gathering. He reiterated his comments in a speech to the General Assembly gathering of world leaders on Tuesday. "Americans will never .. tire in our effort to promote freedom of worship and religion. We want and support religious liberty for all," he said. Trump, who has been cautious about upsetting China on human rights issues while making a major trade deal with Beijing a major priority, said religious freedom was under growing threat around the world but fell short of specifically mentioning the Uighur situation. "Volume is coming up at a pace that we hope that the Beijing government recognises not only the US but the global concern about this situation," David Stilwell, US Assistant Secretary, Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs told reporters at a briefing. "We will see how that plays out and how Beijing reacts and take it from there", he added. A representative for the Chinese delegation to the UN General Assembly accused Washington of violating the UN Charter by criticizing China. The United Nations says at least 1 million ethnic Uighurs and other Muslims have been detained in what China describes as "vocational training centres" to stamp out extremism and give people new skills. Sullivan said the United States had received "credible reports of deaths, forced labour, torture, and other cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment" in the camps. He said there were also many reports that the Chinese government forces detainees to renounce their ethnic identities as well as their culture and religion. Though US officials have ramped up criticism of China's measures in Xinjiang, it has refrained from responding with sanctions, amid on-again, off-again talks to resolve a bitter, costly trade war. At the same time, it has criticized other countries, including some Muslim states, for not doing enough or for backing China's approach in Xinjiang. Rishat Abbas, the brother of Uighur physician Gulshan Abbas, who was abducted from her home in Urumchi in September 2018, told Tuesday's event that "millions of Uighurs are becoming collateral damage to international trade policies, enabling China to continue to threaten our freedoms around the world, enable it to continue its police state.” UN human rights chief Michelle Bachelet has repeatedly pushed China to grant the United Nations access to investigate reports of disappearances and arbitrary detentions, particularly of Muslims in Xinjiang. China's envoy in Geneva said in June that he hoped Bachelet would visit China, including Xinjiang. Bachelet's office said in June that it was discussing "full access" with China.

US leads condemnation of China for 'horrific' repression of Uighur Muslims

PM Modi and Donald Trump meet for the 2nd time. Watch video to know more.

PM Modi and Donald Trump meet for the 2nd time

French President Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;said on Tuesday that&nbsp;he believed that the&nbsp;conditions&nbsp;for the leaders of the United States and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rouhani-says-iran-resists-sanctions-drives-us-desperate-251461">Iran</a> to meet were now in place, but the ball was now in their court to make it happen.

"I believe that the&nbsp;conditions&nbsp;in this context for a rapid return to negotiations have been created,"&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;told reporters before heading back to Paris from New York, where he attended the annual United Nations General Assembly.

"It's now&nbsp;up&nbsp;to the Iranians and the United States to seize these&nbsp;conditions&nbsp;and work together to relaunch momentum", he added.

The French leader has been pushing to defuse tensions between Washington and Tehran over the last few weeks, especially after an attack on Saudi oil facilities on September 14. that the United States, Europe, and Saudi Arabia have blamed on Iran.

Macron&nbsp;used two days of shuffle diplomacy at the United Nations to try to bring US&nbsp;President Donald&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;and Iranian President Hassan&nbsp;Rouhani&nbsp;face-to-face or at the very least get&nbsp;them&nbsp;to engage, fearing that a new incident could inflame the region.

But, with&nbsp;Rouhani&nbsp;demanding that the US lift tough sanctions that have strangled its economy and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-rouhani-meeting-not-scheduled-as-speculation-swirls-251685">Washington refusing</a> to do so until Iran comes to the table without&nbsp;conditions, the chances of a breakthrough still appear slim, even if the two leaders are still in New York on Wednesday.

"There is a common desire to progress and to not just find the terms of deescalation, but build a long-term accord,"&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;said. "But it depends on the will of both sides."

Macron&nbsp;said the parameters of the&nbsp;talks&nbsp;were to ensure that Iran can never acquire a nuclear weapon, end Yemen's civil war, develop a plan for regional security that includes other crises in the region, ensure maritime flows in the Strait of Hormuz and lift economic sanctions.

But while&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;said that those were the&nbsp;conditions, there appeared little to suggest that either side had agreed to take the next step.

"I think that lifting of sanctions on the part of the Americans without any visibility on the other subjects is not possible,"&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;said.

"At the same time, clear commitments from Iran on the points I mentioned are not possible without American commitments", he added.

When asked whether he thought that they could still meet this week,&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;urged the two leaders to not miss the chance.

"I don't think in the coming weeks and months there will be an opportunity for him <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-president-rouhani-calls-for-unity-to-overcome-us-economic-war-246275">(Rouhani)</a> to come back to the US, and I don't think President&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;will be going to Tehran," he said.

"It's a physical opportunity to seize because I think the best way to start a negotiation is to have a meeting, have a frank discussion between the two main protagonists,"&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;said.

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday that he believed that the conditions for the leaders of the United States and Iran to meet were now in place, but the ball was now in their court to make it happen.

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday that he believed that the conditions for the leaders of the United States and Iran to meet were now in place, but the ball was now in their court to make it happen. "I believe that the conditions in this context for a rapid return to negotiations have been created," Macron told reporters before heading back to Paris from New York, where he attended the annual United Nations General Assembly. "It's now up to the Iranians and the United States to seize these conditions and work together to relaunch momentum", he added. The French leader has been pushing to defuse tensions between Washington and Tehran over the last few weeks, especially after an attack on Saudi oil facilities on September 14. that the United States, Europe, and Saudi Arabia have blamed on Iran. Macron used two days of shuffle diplomacy at the United Nations to try to bring US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani face-to-face or at the very least get them to engage, fearing that a new incident could inflame the region. But, with Rouhani demanding that the US lift tough sanctions that have strangled its economy and Washington refusing to do so until Iran comes to the table without conditions, the chances of a breakthrough still appear slim, even if the two leaders are still in New York on Wednesday. "There is a common desire to progress and to not just find the terms of deescalation, but build a long-term accord," Macron said. "But it depends on the will of both sides." Macron said the parameters of the talks were to ensure that Iran can never acquire a nuclear weapon, end Yemen's civil war, develop a plan for regional security that includes other crises in the region, ensure maritime flows in the Strait of Hormuz and lift economic sanctions. But while Macron said that those were the conditions, there appeared little to suggest that either side had agreed to take the next step. "I think that lifting of sanctions on the part of the Americans without any visibility on the other subjects is not possible," Macron said. "At the same time, clear commitments from Iran on the points I mentioned are not possible without American commitments", he added. When asked whether he thought that they could still meet this week, Macron urged the two leaders to not miss the chance. "I don't think in the coming weeks and months there will be an opportunity for him (Rouhani) to come back to the US, and I don't think President Trump will be going to Tehran," he said. "It's a physical opportunity to seize because I think the best way to start a negotiation is to have a meeting, have a frank discussion between the two main protagonists," Macron said.

Macron says Trump, Rouhani know conditions for talks, but up to them to deliver

India and the US will have a "trade deal very soon", said US President Donald Trump in New York on Tuesday after a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

India-US trade deal 'very soon', says Trump

The US Environmental Protection Agency granted some refineries full waivers from biofuels regulation for the 2018 compliance year, even though the Department of Energy had recommended partial exemptions, according to an EPA memo seen by Reuters.

The decision upset the powerful US corn lobby, already angry at the Trump administration's move in August to grant 31 full exemptions to refineries, freeing them from an at-times costly obligation to use biofuels such as corn-based ethanol.

Democratic presidential candidates also seized on the administration's use of waivers on Tuesday, calling them a giveaway to the oil industry that hurts farmers already struggling from the effects of the US trade war with China.

The issue shows how President Donald Trump has struggled to simultaneously please the corn and oil industries, key political constituencies leading into next year's presidential election that has routinely clashed over future biofuels policy.

The August 9 memo showed the EPA granted "full exemptions for those 2018 small refinery petitions where DOE recommended 50 per cent relief."

The memo, signed by Anne Idsal, EPA’s acting assistant administrator for the Office of Air and Radiation, did not specify how many refineries were involved.

Trump's EPA has disregarded DOE advice on waivers in the past, Reuters has reported, marking a break from the Obama administration’s EPA, which had often either adopted energy department recommendations or, when it did not, ruled against exempting oil refiners.

An EPA official did not immediately comment.

Agency officials and oil industry representatives have defended the EPA's expanded use of waivers under the Trump administration, saying they protect refining jobs and there is no evidence they have any impact on ethanol demand.

"Small refinery exemptions are a critical lifeline for small refineries across the US," said a spokesman for the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers refining group.

But biofuel industry representatives called the memo evidence the agency is biased in favour of the oil industry.

"Granting favours to refiners that aren’t really facing an economic hardship is just one of the multiple problems with EPA’s handling of small refinery exemptions," said Kurt Kovarik, vice president of federal affairs for the National Biodiesel Board, on the sidelines of an industry event.

"The memo clearly shows that EPA continues to disregard the recommendations of DOE," Geoff Cooper, head of the Renewable Fuels Association industry group, said in an email.

In a clear sign the issue has become a potential political vulnerability for Trump, White House hopeful Democratic Senator Cory Booker seized on the news of the memo, calling the administration's use of the waiver program an "abuse of power."

He added, "Time and time again, this president and his administration have used their power to prop up their political allies, like oil companies, at the expense of hardworking American farmers, and now, they're doing it against the advice of their own Department of Energy."

Mayor Pete Buttigieg also mentioned small refinery waivers on Tuesday during a campaign stop in Iowa, calling them "big giveaways to oil," drawing applause from his crowd.

The US Renewable Fuel Standard requires oil refineries to blend biofuels, such as corn-based ethanol, into their fuel or purchase credits from those that do.

The law is intended to help farmers and cut US dependence on foreign oil but refiners say it costs them a fortune.

The RFS, however, allows the EPA to grant waivers from the regulation to small refining facilities of 75,000 barrels per day or less if they can prove that compliance would cause them disproportionate economic hardship.

This process sees the DOE assess applications and provide recommendations to the EPA, which then makes a final decision.

While the EPA publishes the number of waiver applicants and recipients each year, it keeps their identities secret, arguing the information is business-sensitive.

Since Trump took office, the EPA has vastly expanded its use of the exemptions, providing waivers to small facilities owned by billionaire investor Carl Icahn and oil majors, such as Exxon Mobil Corp and Chevron Corp, Reuters has reported.

Under pressure over the most recent round of 31 waivers, Trump last month promised a "giant package" to farmers to boost the market for ethanol.

That plan has yet to be released.

The US Environmental Protection Agency granted some refineries full waivers from biofuels regulation for the 2018 compliance year, even though the Department of Energy had recommended partial exemptions, according to an EPA memo seen by Reuters.

The US Environmental Protection Agency granted some refineries full waivers from biofuels regulation for the 2018 compliance year, even though the Department of Energy had recommended partial exemptions, according to an EPA memo seen by Reuters. The decision upset the powerful US corn lobby, already angry at the Trump administration's move in August to grant 31 full exemptions to refineries, freeing them from an at-times costly obligation to use biofuels such as corn-based ethanol. Democratic presidential candidates also seized on the administration's use of waivers on Tuesday, calling them a giveaway to the oil industry that hurts farmers already struggling from the effects of the US trade war with China. The issue shows how President Donald Trump has struggled to simultaneously please the corn and oil industries, key political constituencies leading into next year's presidential election that has routinely clashed over future biofuels policy. The August 9 memo showed the EPA granted "full exemptions for those 2018 small refinery petitions where DOE recommended 50 per cent relief." The memo, signed by Anne Idsal, EPA’s acting assistant administrator for the Office of Air and Radiation, did not specify how many refineries were involved. Trump's EPA has disregarded DOE advice on waivers in the past, Reuters has reported, marking a break from the Obama administration’s EPA, which had often either adopted energy department recommendations or, when it did not, ruled against exempting oil refiners. An EPA official did not immediately comment. Agency officials and oil industry representatives have defended the EPA's expanded use of waivers under the Trump administration, saying they protect refining jobs and there is no evidence they have any impact on ethanol demand. "Small refinery exemptions are a critical lifeline for small refineries across the US," said a spokesman for the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers refining group. But biofuel industry representatives called the memo evidence the agency is biased in favour of the oil industry. "Granting favours to refiners that aren’t really facing an economic hardship is just one of the multiple problems with EPA’s handling of small refinery exemptions," said Kurt Kovarik, vice president of federal affairs for the National Biodiesel Board, on the sidelines of an industry event. "The memo clearly shows that EPA continues to disregard the recommendations of DOE," Geoff Cooper, head of the Renewable Fuels Association industry group, said in an email. In a clear sign the issue has become a potential political vulnerability for Trump, White House hopeful Democratic Senator Cory Booker seized on the news of the memo, calling the administration's use of the waiver program an "abuse of power." He added, "Time and time again, this president and his administration have used their power to prop up their political allies, like oil companies, at the expense of hardworking American farmers, and now, they're doing it against the advice of their own Department of Energy." Mayor Pete Buttigieg also mentioned small refinery waivers on Tuesday during a campaign stop in Iowa, calling them "big giveaways to oil," drawing applause from his crowd. The US Renewable Fuel Standard requires oil refineries to blend biofuels, such as corn-based ethanol, into their fuel or purchase credits from those that do. The law is intended to help farmers and cut US dependence on foreign oil but refiners say it costs them a fortune. The RFS, however, allows the EPA to grant waivers from the regulation to small refining facilities of 75,000 barrels per day or less if they can prove that compliance would cause them disproportionate economic hardship. This process sees the DOE assess applications and provide recommendations to the EPA, which then makes a final decision. While the EPA publishes the number of waiver applicants and recipients each year, it keeps their identities secret, arguing the information is business-sensitive. Since Trump took office, the EPA has vastly expanded its use of the exemptions, providing waivers to small facilities owned by billionaire investor Carl Icahn and oil majors, such as Exxon Mobil Corp and Chevron Corp, Reuters has reported. Under pressure over the most recent round of 31 waivers, Trump last month promised a "giant package" to farmers to boost the market for ethanol. That plan has yet to be released.

US EPA granted full biofuel waivers to refineries despite Energy Dept advice: memo

Pak PM Imran Khan raises nuclear threat again. Watch video to know more.

Pak PM Imran Khan raises nuclear threat again

United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday termed Prime Minister Narendra Modi "Father of India". The two leaders, who met at the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, heaped praises on each other during the press briefing.

Donald Trump calls PM Modi 'Father of India'

&nbsp;Swedish teenage climate activist Greta Thunberg was named on Wednesday as one of four winners of the 2019 Right Livelihood Award, known as Sweden's alternative Nobel Prize.

Thunberg won the award "for inspiring and amplifying political demands for urgent climate action reflecting scientific facts," the Right Livelihood Foundation said in a statement.

Thunberg, 16, denounced world leaders on Monday for failing to tackle climate change in a speech at the start of a climate summit at the United Nations in New York.

She started solitary weekly protests outside the Swedish parliament a year ago. Inspired by her, millions of young people poured onto streets around the world last Friday to demand governments attending the summit take emergency action.

Thunberg shares the award with Brazilian indigenous leader Davi Kopenawa of the Yanomami people, Chinese women's rights lawyer Guo Jianmei and Western Sahara human rights defender Aminatou Haidar.

"With the 2019 Right Livelihood Award, we honour four practical visionaries whose leadership has empowered millions of people to defend their inalienable rights and to strive for a liveable future for all on planet Earth," the foundation said in the statement.

The four laureates will receive a cash award of 1 million Swedish crowns ($103,000) each.

Swedish teenage climate activist Greta Thunberg was named on Wednesday as one of four winners of the 2019 Right Livelihood Award, known as Sweden's alternative Nobel Prize.

Swedish teenage climate activist Greta Thunberg was named on Wednesday as one of four winners of the 2019 Right Livelihood Award, known as Sweden's alternative Nobel Prize. Thunberg won the award "for inspiring and amplifying political demands for urgent climate action reflecting scientific facts," the Right Livelihood Foundation said in a statement. Thunberg, 16, denounced world leaders on Monday for failing to tackle climate change in a speech at the start of a climate summit at the United Nations in New York. She started solitary weekly protests outside the Swedish parliament a year ago. Inspired by her, millions of young people poured onto streets around the world last Friday to demand governments attending the summit take emergency action. Thunberg shares the award with Brazilian indigenous leader Davi Kopenawa of the Yanomami people, Chinese women's rights lawyer Guo Jianmei and Western Sahara human rights defender Aminatou Haidar. "With the 2019 Right Livelihood Award, we honour four practical visionaries whose leadership has empowered millions of people to defend their inalienable rights and to strive for a liveable future for all on planet Earth," the foundation said in the statement. The four laureates will receive a cash award of 1 million Swedish crowns ($103,000) each.

Climate activist Greta Thunberg wins 'alternative Nobel Prize'

From trade to terror: Key takeaways from Trump-Modi bilateral meeting

The 23rd edition of trilateral maritime exercise 'Malabar' between navies of India, Japan, and the US will begin on Thursday off the coast of Japan.

&nbsp;A Defence Ministry release said two frontline indigenously designed and built Indian naval ships multi-purpose guided-missile frigate Sahyadri and ASW Corvette Kiltan have arrived at Sasebo to participate in the exercise.

In addition to the ships, a 'P8I' Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft has also reached Japan for the exercise.

The release said the participation of Indian naval ships and aircraft in the exercise would significantly bolster the strong maritime bonds of friendship between the three countries and "contribute to security and stability in the region".

The US Navy is being represented by USS McCampbell, a Los Angeles-Class Attack Submarine, and a 'P8A' Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft.

The JMSDF (Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force) would be participating with its Izumo class helicopter destroyer JS Kaga, guided-missile destroyers JS Samidare and Choukai and a 'P1' Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft.

Malabar 2019 would endeavour to further strengthen India-Japan-US naval cooperation and enhance interoperability, based on shared values and principles.

The exercise would involve complex maritime operations in the surface, sub-surface and air domains and focus on anti-submarine warfare, anti-air and anti-surface firings, maritime interdiction operations (MIO) including visit board search and seizure (VBSS) and tactical scenario-based exercise at sea.

In addition, the partner navies would conduct official protocol visits, professional interactions including subject matter expert exchanges (SMEE), reciprocal ship visits, sports fixtures, and social events during the harbour phase.

The exercise will conclude on October 4.

The 23rd edition of trilateral maritime exercise 'Malabar' between navies of India, Japan, and the US will begin on Thursday off the coast of Japan. A Defence Ministry release said two frontline indigenously designed and built Indian naval ships multi-purpose guided-missile frigate Sahyadri and ASW Corvette Kiltan have arrived at Sasebo to participate in the exercise.

The 23rd edition of trilateral maritime exercise 'Malabar' between navies of India, Japan, and the US will begin on Thursday off the coast of Japan. A Defence Ministry release said two frontline indigenously designed and built Indian naval ships multi-purpose guided-missile frigate Sahyadri and ASW Corvette Kiltan have arrived at Sasebo to participate in the exercise. In addition to the ships, a 'P8I' Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft has also reached Japan for the exercise. The release said the participation of Indian naval ships and aircraft in the exercise would significantly bolster the strong maritime bonds of friendship between the three countries and "contribute to security and stability in the region". The US Navy is being represented by USS McCampbell, a Los Angeles-Class Attack Submarine, and a 'P8A' Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft. The JMSDF (Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force) would be participating with its Izumo class helicopter destroyer JS Kaga, guided-missile destroyers JS Samidare and Choukai and a 'P1' Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft. Malabar 2019 would endeavour to further strengthen India-Japan-US naval cooperation and enhance interoperability, based on shared values and principles. The exercise would involve complex maritime operations in the surface, sub-surface and air domains and focus on anti-submarine warfare, anti-air and anti-surface firings, maritime interdiction operations (MIO) including visit board search and seizure (VBSS) and tactical scenario-based exercise at sea. In addition, the partner navies would conduct official protocol visits, professional interactions including subject matter expert exchanges (SMEE), reciprocal ship visits, sports fixtures, and social events during the harbour phase. The exercise will conclude on October 4.

India, Japan, US naval exercise Malabar begins on September 26

Chinese hackers who used a previously unknown iPhone security flaw to target ethnic minority Uighurs also went after Tibetans in exile, according to a report published on Tuesday.

It was the first detected use of malicious software against exiled Tibetans that required only a single click on a mobile device to work, said Citizen Lab, a Canada-based academic research group.

Citing the technical similarities in the attacks and ones uncovered by U.S. tech firms against Uighurs, the report suggested that forces likely working with the Chinese government may be upgrading their surveillance efforts against key minorities more broadly. The Tibetans are protesting the Chinese rule of the mountainous region inside China.

Asked in Beijing about the report, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said China resolutely opposed and cracked down on any form of internet attacks, and that any accusations needed to be backed up by cast-iron proof.

Citizen Lab, based at the University of Toronto, said it had worked with the recently established Tibetan Computer Emergency Readiness Team (TibCERT), a coalition of Tibetan organizations working on digital security, to probe cyber-attacks that occurred between November 2018 and May 2019.

In the attacks, people posing as human rights workers or journalists contacted unnamed senior figures in Tibetan groups over Facebook's WhatsApp messaging service, according to screenshots featuring their phone numbers posted in the Citizen Lab report. Reuters was not able to independently confirm the authenticity of the screenshots or details of the report.

Among the groups targeted in November 2018 was the private office of Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan Parliament, and human rights organizations, the report said.

Using well-crafted cover stories, the attackers tried to entice the targets to click on links to websites that would have installed spyware on Apple or Android devices, the report said.

Eight of the 15 Tibetans known to have received the tainted links recalled clicking on them to open them, the researchers said. All their devices were protected by patches that had been issued for the security flaws, but the researchers followed the links themselves to determine what would have happened.

Citizen Lab said the spyware aimed at the Tibetans had also been used to target Uighurs, a mostly Muslim minority group considered a possible security threat by Beijing, in two campaigns revealed in the past month. One was discovered by Google, and another by security company Volexity.

An Apple spokesman said the company had consulted with Citizen Lab and confirmed that the attack tools would not have worked against the Tibetan targets who had updated their iPhones.

"We always encourage customers to download the latest version of iOS for the best and most current security enhancements," said spokesman Todd Wilder.

China is facing growing international criticism over its treatment of Uighurs in Xinjiang. It has repeatedly denied involvement in cyberattacks or any mistreatment of the Uighur people.

Although lead Citizen Lab researcher Bill Marczak said Citizen Lab found "a very clear nexus with China," he acknowledged that "it doesn't automatically mean it's the government, it's kind of hard to say from a technical point of view."

Lobsang Gyatso, secretary of TibCERT, said that the group would use the report to spread awareness of hacking tactics and promote better defense

Chinese hackers who used a previously unknown iPhone security flaw to target ethnic minority Uighurs also went after Tibetans in exile, according to a report published on Tuesday.

Chinese hackers who used a previously unknown iPhone security flaw to target ethnic minority Uighurs also went after Tibetans in exile, according to a report published on Tuesday. It was the first detected use of malicious software against exiled Tibetans that required only a single click on a mobile device to work, said Citizen Lab, a Canada-based academic research group. Citing the technical similarities in the attacks and ones uncovered by U.S. tech firms against Uighurs, the report suggested that forces likely working with the Chinese government may be upgrading their surveillance efforts against key minorities more broadly. The Tibetans are protesting the Chinese rule of the mountainous region inside China. Asked in Beijing about the report, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said China resolutely opposed and cracked down on any form of internet attacks, and that any accusations needed to be backed up by cast-iron proof. Citizen Lab, based at the University of Toronto, said it had worked with the recently established Tibetan Computer Emergency Readiness Team (TibCERT), a coalition of Tibetan organizations working on digital security, to probe cyber-attacks that occurred between November 2018 and May 2019. In the attacks, people posing as human rights workers or journalists contacted unnamed senior figures in Tibetan groups over Facebook's WhatsApp messaging service, according to screenshots featuring their phone numbers posted in the Citizen Lab report. Reuters was not able to independently confirm the authenticity of the screenshots or details of the report. Among the groups targeted in November 2018 was the private office of Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan Parliament, and human rights organizations, the report said. Using well-crafted cover stories, the attackers tried to entice the targets to click on links to websites that would have installed spyware on Apple or Android devices, the report said. Eight of the 15 Tibetans known to have received the tainted links recalled clicking on them to open them, the researchers said. All their devices were protected by patches that had been issued for the security flaws, but the researchers followed the links themselves to determine what would have happened. Citizen Lab said the spyware aimed at the Tibetans had also been used to target Uighurs, a mostly Muslim minority group considered a possible security threat by Beijing, in two campaigns revealed in the past month. One was discovered by Google, and another by security company Volexity. An Apple spokesman said the company had consulted with Citizen Lab and confirmed that the attack tools would not have worked against the Tibetan targets who had updated their iPhones. "We always encourage customers to download the latest version of iOS for the best and most current security enhancements," said spokesman Todd Wilder. China is facing growing international criticism over its treatment of Uighurs in Xinjiang. It has repeatedly denied involvement in cyberattacks or any mistreatment of the Uighur people. Although lead Citizen Lab researcher Bill Marczak said Citizen Lab found "a very clear nexus with China," he acknowledged that "it doesn't automatically mean it's the government, it's kind of hard to say from a technical point of view." Lobsang Gyatso, secretary of TibCERT, said that the group would use the report to spread awareness of hacking tactics and promote better defense

Chinese hackers who pursued Uighurs also targeted Tibetans: researchers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday presented to US President Donald Trump a framed photograph from the mega "Howdy Modi" event in Houston.

PM Modi gifts Trump photo from 'Howdy, Modi!' event

India is not shying away from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-imran-likely-to-cross-paths-at-united-nations-headquarters-today-251795">talks with Pakistan</a> but we expect certain concrete steps to be taken by the neighbouring country first, Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/memories-from-houston-pm-modi-gifts-framed-photograph-from-howdy-modi-to-trump-251835">Narendra Modi</a> said to US President Donald Trump during the bilateral meeting on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly in New york.

"The Prime Minister made it clear (to Trump) that we are not shying away from talks with Pakistan but we expect certain concrete steps to be taken by Pakistan before that, and we don't find any efforts by them," Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale told reporters at a briefing in Delhi after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-calls-modi-elvis-of-india-says-modi-will-take-care-of-terrorism-from-pakistan-251819">bilateral meeting between the two leaders</a>.

India raised the challenges it has been facing with regard to terror especially in Jammu and Kashmir since last 30 years, Gokhale also&nbsp;said.

New Delhi has repeatedly maintained that dialogue with Pakistan will not be initiated until it takes concrete action against terror emanating from its soil.

Gokhale also said that during the meeting, Modi told Trump that radicalisation is fading away from India, a fact appreciated by the US President.

"The Prime Minister told President Trump that there has been a significantly lower level of radicalisation in India than there has been in any other part of the world. President Trump acknowledged and took note of the fact," the Foreign Secretary remarked.

Watch: Indian PM Modi &amp; US President Trump's meet at UN for bilateral talks

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The latest development comes as PM Modi and his Pakistan counterpart Imran Khan are expected to cross paths with each other at the United Nations headquarters in New York today.

As the UN General Assembly session formally opens, at least one occasion could present itself when Modi and Khan would be under the same roof -- an eagerly-awaited optic amid khan's attempt to draw global attention to Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370 which Indian government maintains is an internal matter.

That said, while Modi and Khan may chance upon each other at various engagements slated for today, it is speculative at best to assume that the two will confront each other at the United Nations.&nbsp;

Both Indian prime minister and his Pakistan counterpart would address the UN general assembly on September 27.

PM Modi and&nbsp;US President sat together in New York on Tuesday for the third time in the last few months and while endorsing each other also announced both working on a trade deal.

The meeting lasted between 30 to 45 minutes, Gokhale said, adding, "India was quite satisfied with the meeting".

India is not shying away from talks with Pakistan but we expect certain concrete steps to be taken by the neighbouring country first, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said to US President Donald Trump during the bilateral meeting on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly in New york.

India is not shying away from talks with Pakistan but we expect certain concrete steps to be taken by the neighbouring country first, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said to US President Donald Trump during the bilateral meeting on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly in New york. "The Prime Minister made it clear (to Trump) that we are not shying away from talks with Pakistan but we expect certain concrete steps to be taken by Pakistan before that, and we don't find any efforts by them," Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale told reporters at a briefing in Delhi after the bilateral meeting between the two leaders. India raised the challenges it has been facing with regard to terror especially in Jammu and Kashmir since last 30 years, Gokhale also said. New Delhi has repeatedly maintained that dialogue with Pakistan will not be initiated until it takes concrete action against terror emanating from its soil. Gokhale also said that during the meeting, Modi told Trump that radicalisation is fading away from India, a fact appreciated by the US President. "The Prime Minister told President Trump that there has been a significantly lower level of radicalisation in India than there has been in any other part of the world. President Trump acknowledged and took note of the fact," the Foreign Secretary remarked. Watch: Indian PM Modi & US President Trump's meet at UN for bilateral talks × The latest development comes as PM Modi and his Pakistan counterpart Imran Khan are expected to cross paths with each other at the United Nations headquarters in New York today. As the UN General Assembly session formally opens, at least one occasion could present itself when Modi and Khan would be under the same roof -- an eagerly-awaited optic amid khan's attempt to draw global attention to Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370 which Indian government maintains is an internal matter. That said, while Modi and Khan may chance upon each other at various engagements slated for today, it is speculative at best to assume that the two will confront each other at the United Nations. Both Indian prime minister and his Pakistan counterpart would address the UN general assembly on September 27. PM Modi and US President sat together in New York on Tuesday for the third time in the last few months and while endorsing each other also announced both working on a trade deal. The meeting lasted between 30 to 45 minutes, Gokhale said, adding, "India was quite satisfied with the meeting".

India not shying away from talks with Pakistan: PM Modi tells Donald Trump in New York

Indian shares fell on Wednesday, tracking broader Asia as investors braced for prospects of prolonged political uncertainty in the United States after the launch of a formal impeachment inquiry against President Donald Trump.

Democrats in the US&nbsp;House of Representatives on Tuesday launched a formal <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/asian-markets-fall-as-impeachment-process-against-donald-trump-begins-251880">impeachment inquiry</a> into President Trump, accusing him of seeking foreign help to smear Democratic rival Joe Biden ahead of next year's election.

"After the news from the US, we might be on tenterhooks, but we as an economy do not have much to worry," said Gaurang Shah, senior vice president at Geojit Financial Services.

"The outcome remains to be seen."

Compounding investors' fears, Trump's remarks at the United Nations Assembly on Tuesday accused China of currency manipulation and intellectual property theft risked riling a tariff dispute that has embroiled global equities over the past year.

The broader NSE Nifty was down 0.64 per cent&nbsp;at 11,511.45, as of 0406 GMT, while the benchmark BSE Sensex fell 0.69 per cent to 38,818.06.

MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan was down 0.82 per cent.

Public sector banks and autos led the losses in India, with the Nifty PSU Bank Index shedding 2.16 per cent, while the Nifty Auto Index declined 1.45 per cent.

State Bank of India, the country's biggest lender by assets, dropped 2.78 per cent and was among the top decliners on the blue-chip NSE Nifty, while Tata Motors fell 3.13 per cent.&nbsp;

Among gainers, Power Grid Corp rose 2.15 per cent, while Reliance Industries and Tata Consultancy Services, the country's top two most valuable companies, gained about 1 per cent&nbsp;each.

Indian shares fell on Wednesday, tracking broader Asia as investors braced for prospects of prolonged political uncertainty in the United States after the launch of a formal impeachment inquiry against President Donald Trump.

Indian shares fell on Wednesday, tracking broader Asia as investors braced for prospects of prolonged political uncertainty in the United States after the launch of a formal impeachment inquiry against President Donald Trump. Democrats in the US House of Representatives on Tuesday launched a formal impeachment inquiry into President Trump, accusing him of seeking foreign help to smear Democratic rival Joe Biden ahead of next year's election. "After the news from the US, we might be on tenterhooks, but we as an economy do not have much to worry," said Gaurang Shah, senior vice president at Geojit Financial Services. "The outcome remains to be seen." Compounding investors' fears, Trump's remarks at the United Nations Assembly on Tuesday accused China of currency manipulation and intellectual property theft risked riling a tariff dispute that has embroiled global equities over the past year. The broader NSE Nifty was down 0.64 per cent at 11,511.45, as of 0406 GMT, while the benchmark BSE Sensex fell 0.69 per cent to 38,818.06. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan was down 0.82 per cent. Public sector banks and autos led the losses in India, with the Nifty PSU Bank Index shedding 2.16 per cent, while the Nifty Auto Index declined 1.45 per cent. State Bank of India, the country's biggest lender by assets, dropped 2.78 per cent and was among the top decliners on the blue-chip NSE Nifty, while Tata Motors fell 3.13 per cent. Among gainers, Power Grid Corp rose 2.15 per cent, while Reliance Industries and Tata Consultancy Services, the country's top two most valuable companies, gained about 1 per cent each.

Nifty, Sensex track broader Asia lower on US political worries

Trump urges to mediate again; Is he playing both sides? Watch video to know more.

Trump urges to mediate again; Is he playing both sides?

Facing acute&nbsp;fuel&nbsp;shortages&nbsp;in their own country,&nbsp;Haitians&nbsp;took a chance to cross the border into the&nbsp;Dominican&nbsp;Republic&nbsp;in search of&nbsp;petrol&nbsp;on Monday.

Dozens were seen crossing the border and gathering around a&nbsp;petrol&nbsp;station in Dajabon, the capital city of the Dajabon province in the&nbsp;Dominican&nbsp;Republic, on the border with Haiti.

Haitians&nbsp;complained they need&nbsp;fuel&nbsp;to survive, while police in the&nbsp;Dominican&nbsp;Republic&nbsp;tighten their grip on security.

A dispute between Haiti and a US&nbsp;energy trading firm has to lead to long blackouts and&nbsp;fuel&nbsp;shortages&nbsp;in the Caribbean nation, feeding anger at President Jovenel Moise's government following the collapse of a supply deal with Venezuela last year.

The Western Hemisphere's poorest nation, Haiti long relied on&nbsp;fuel&nbsp;shipments from nearby OPEC member Venezuela, which offered cheap financing to several Caribbean nations to buy its gasoline, diesel and other products through a program called Petrocaribe.

But the scheme fell apart last year due to economic turmoil in Venezuela, forcing Haiti, a nation of 11 million people to return to international markets.

The result has put upward pressure on the prices of goods.

Facing acute fuel shortages in their own country, Haitians took a chance to cross the border into the Dominican Republic in search of petrol on Monday. Dozens were seen crossing the border and gathering around a petrol station in Dajabon, the capital city of the Dajabon province in the Dominican Republic, on the border with Haiti.

Facing acute fuel shortages in their own country, Haitians took a chance to cross the border into the Dominican Republic in search of petrol on Monday. Dozens were seen crossing the border and gathering around a petrol station in Dajabon, the capital city of the Dajabon province in the Dominican Republic, on the border with Haiti. Haitians complained they need fuel to survive, while police in the Dominican Republic tighten their grip on security. A dispute between Haiti and a US energy trading firm has to lead to long blackouts and fuel shortages in the Caribbean nation, feeding anger at President Jovenel Moise's government following the collapse of a supply deal with Venezuela last year. The Western Hemisphere's poorest nation, Haiti long relied on fuel shipments from nearby OPEC member Venezuela, which offered cheap financing to several Caribbean nations to buy its gasoline, diesel and other products through a program called Petrocaribe. But the scheme fell apart last year due to economic turmoil in Venezuela, forcing Haiti, a nation of 11 million people to return to international markets. The result has put upward pressure on the prices of goods.

Fuel shortages drive Haitians into the Dominican Republic for petrol

Day 3 of PM Modi's United States visit. Watch video to know more.

Day 3 of PM Modi's United States visit

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-japan-trade-agreement-will-be-model-for-indo-pacific-pence-177013">US-Japan trade deal</a> hit a last-minute snag as Japanese officials sought assurances that the Trump administration will not impose national security tariffs on Japanese-built cars and auto parts, people familiar with the talks said on Monday.

US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-japan-agree-trade-deal-in-principle-245579">Shinzo Abe</a> have been aiming to sign a trade deal at a meeting this week during the United Nations General Assembly in New York that provides increased access to Japan for US agricultural goods and bilateral cuts in industrial goods tariffs.

But the limited trade deal is not expected to include changes to tariffs and trade rules governing autos, the biggest source of the $67.6 billion US&nbsp;trade deficit with Japan.

Trump has refrained thus far from following through on his threat to impose tariffs of up to 25 per cent&nbsp;on Japanese and European car and parts imports, citing ongoing trade negotiations with these partners.

The New York Times earlier reported that Japan was demanding a "sunset clause" that would cancel any trade benefits for the United States if Trump imposes the auto tariffs on Japanese vehicles.

Japanese Foreign Ministry spokesman Masato Ohtaka said that Japan still hoped to sign the US&nbsp;trade deal by the end of September and that there was still time to work out remaining issues.

"Frankly speaking, we still have some time and all my colleagues in the government are making their best efforts to actually meet this target," Ohtaka said.

"With the UN&nbsp;General Assembly meeting in mind, we are accelerating the remaining work, including the wording of a trade agreement", Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said.

Executives at two automakers briefed on the matter said Japan has expressed concerns about signing a deal without assurances that Trump will refrain from imposing tariffs on Japanese automotive exports as he benefits from Japanese agricultural concessions.

These people, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the issue could delay the signing of a US-Japan trade deal until subsequent weeks.

Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi told reporters after talks with US&nbsp;Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer that significant work was underway to finalise the deal but that he did not expect much delay beyond an end-September target signing off on the deal. He added that he expected a "good ceremony" when Abe and Trump meet.

"I think the content will not be something to worry about", Motegi said about the US threat of added tariffs on Japanese autos.

Details of the US-Japan trade deal have not been disclosed, but people familiar with it say that it will provide US&nbsp;farmers who have been battered by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-japan-to-open-trade-talks-amid-china-deal-optimism-210692">US&nbsp;trade war with China</a> some relief through increased access to Japan, including for American beef and pork.

But some people say it will provide less than the access they would have received had the United States remained in the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, which Trump pulled the United States out of on his third day in office in January 2017.

The deal also includes a modernization of digital trade rules, which is expected to reinforce the US&nbsp;model of internet development, prohibiting cross-border taxation of e-commerce and data localization requirements.

Trump and Abe, a year ago at the UN&nbsp;General Assembly agreed to discuss an arrangement that protects Japanese automakers from further tariffs while negotiations are underway.

The trade deal would not require congressional approval, using a trade law provision that allows the US&nbsp;President to make executive agreements to mutually reduce tariffs with a foreign trading partner.

A US-Japan trade deal hit a last-minute snag as Japanese officials sought assurances that the Trump administration will not impose national security tariffs on Japanese-built cars and auto parts, people familiar with the talks said on Monday.

A US-Japan trade deal hit a last-minute snag as Japanese officials sought assurances that the Trump administration will not impose national security tariffs on Japanese-built cars and auto parts, people familiar with the talks said on Monday. US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe have been aiming to sign a trade deal at a meeting this week during the United Nations General Assembly in New York that provides increased access to Japan for US agricultural goods and bilateral cuts in industrial goods tariffs. But the limited trade deal is not expected to include changes to tariffs and trade rules governing autos, the biggest source of the $67.6 billion US trade deficit with Japan. Trump has refrained thus far from following through on his threat to impose tariffs of up to 25 per cent on Japanese and European car and parts imports, citing ongoing trade negotiations with these partners. The New York Times earlier reported that Japan was demanding a "sunset clause" that would cancel any trade benefits for the United States if Trump imposes the auto tariffs on Japanese vehicles. Japanese Foreign Ministry spokesman Masato Ohtaka said that Japan still hoped to sign the US trade deal by the end of September and that there was still time to work out remaining issues. "Frankly speaking, we still have some time and all my colleagues in the government are making their best efforts to actually meet this target," Ohtaka said. "With the UN General Assembly meeting in mind, we are accelerating the remaining work, including the wording of a trade agreement", Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said. Executives at two automakers briefed on the matter said Japan has expressed concerns about signing a deal without assurances that Trump will refrain from imposing tariffs on Japanese automotive exports as he benefits from Japanese agricultural concessions. These people, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the issue could delay the signing of a US-Japan trade deal until subsequent weeks. Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi told reporters after talks with US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer that significant work was underway to finalise the deal but that he did not expect much delay beyond an end-September target signing off on the deal. He added that he expected a "good ceremony" when Abe and Trump meet. "I think the content will not be something to worry about", Motegi said about the US threat of added tariffs on Japanese autos. Details of the US-Japan trade deal have not been disclosed, but people familiar with it say that it will provide US farmers who have been battered by the US trade war with China some relief through increased access to Japan, including for American beef and pork. But some people say it will provide less than the access they would have received had the United States remained in the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, which Trump pulled the United States out of on his third day in office in January 2017. The deal also includes a modernization of digital trade rules, which is expected to reinforce the US model of internet development, prohibiting cross-border taxation of e-commerce and data localization requirements. Trump and Abe, a year ago at the UN General Assembly agreed to discuss an arrangement that protects Japanese automakers from further tariffs while negotiations are underway. The trade deal would not require congressional approval, using a trade law provision that allows the US President to make executive agreements to mutually reduce tariffs with a foreign trading partner.

US-Japan trade deal hits snag as Tokyo seeks assurances on car tariffs

A joint operation was carried out by US and Afghan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-drone-strike-kills-30-civilians-in-afghanistan-40-injured-250672">troops</a> against proscribed terror groups Al-Qaeda and Taliban in a compound in Afghanistan's Helmand province in which four terrorists were killed while several other militants were detained.

The operation was carried out in Musa Qala, a Taliban stronghold in Helmand, according to the National Security Council (NSC) of Afghanistan.

The NSC said that AQIS leader Asim Umar, who was the target, was in the compound. While it did not elaborate on Umar's status, it, however, informed that his courier, who was tasked with delivering messages to Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri was killed.

Taliban's Explosives Chief for Helmand and two other deputies were also killed in the operation.

The NSC said that six Pakistani females, including a woman identified as Umar's wife, were in custody while eight Taliban and several foreign terrorists were also detained.

During the operation, the troops seized and destroyed Taliban weapons and ammunition.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-blast-in-kabuls-diplomatic-area-231905">Afghan</a> National Security Council (NSC)&nbsp;said that it was assessing reports of possible civilian casualties.

"Unfortunately, we are hearing reports of possible civilian casualties. As a responsible government, we are still assessing those reports and will address them accordingly," it said.

A joint operation was carried out by US and Afghan troops against proscribed terror groups Al-Qaeda and Taliban in a compound in Afghanistan's Helmand province in which four terrorists were killed while several other militants were detained.

A joint operation was carried out by US and Afghan troops against proscribed terror groups Al-Qaeda and Taliban in a compound in Afghanistan's Helmand province in which four terrorists were killed while several other militants were detained. The operation was carried out in Musa Qala, a Taliban stronghold in Helmand, according to the National Security Council (NSC) of Afghanistan. The NSC said that AQIS leader Asim Umar, who was the target, was in the compound. While it did not elaborate on Umar's status, it, however, informed that his courier, who was tasked with delivering messages to Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri was killed. Taliban's Explosives Chief for Helmand and two other deputies were also killed in the operation. The NSC said that six Pakistani females, including a woman identified as Umar's wife, were in custody while eight Taliban and several foreign terrorists were also detained. During the operation, the troops seized and destroyed Taliban weapons and ammunition. The Afghan National Security Council (NSC) said that it was assessing reports of possible civilian casualties. "Unfortunately, we are hearing reports of possible civilian casualties. As a responsible government, we are still assessing those reports and will address them accordingly," it said.

4 terrorists killed in joint US-Afghan operation, several detained

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and the United States could resume <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-says-us-north-korea-will-restart-dialogue-soon-244718">working-level&nbsp;talks</a>&nbsp;aimed at dismantling the&nbsp;North's nuclear and missile programmes within two to three weeks, South&nbsp;Korean lawmakers who were briefed by a spy agency said on Tuesday.

The lawmakers said that a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-sets-foot-in-north-korea-agrees-with-kim-to-resume-stalled-talks-231711">fourth summit&nbsp;</a>between the North&nbsp;Korean leader Kim Jong Un and US&nbsp;President Donald Trump was possible within this year, if the negotiations make progress, but did not provide clear evidence.

Kim could also visit China for the fifth summit with President Xi Jinping before holding any summit with Trump, the lawmakers told reporters after a briefing by the National Intelligence Service.

North Korea and the United States could resume working-level talks aimed at dismantling the North's nuclear and missile programmes within two to three weeks, South Korean lawmakers who were briefed by a spy agency said on Tuesday.

North Korea and the United States could resume working-level talks aimed at dismantling the North's nuclear and missile programmes within two to three weeks, South Korean lawmakers who were briefed by a spy agency said on Tuesday. The lawmakers said that a fourth summit between the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump was possible within this year, if the negotiations make progress, but did not provide clear evidence. Kim could also visit China for the fifth summit with President Xi Jinping before holding any summit with Trump, the lawmakers told reporters after a briefing by the National Intelligence Service.

Talks between US-North Korea may resume in 2-3 weeks: South Korea's lawmakers

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-key-takeaways-pm-modi-trump-meeting-at-howdy-modi-event-in-houston-251337">Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump</a> share a great synergy and their second meeting within a span of two days will take the India-US relations to greater heights, said Consul General of India in New York, Sandeep Chakravarty, on Tuesday.

"There is a great deal of synergy between the two leaders. They talk on the phone, meet on sidelines, they met in Houston the day before. Our relationship is on a continuous climb. They are going to meet again in a span of two days which shows that they value each other's friendship and relationship and they will take the relationship ahead," Chakravarty told ANI here.

He also expressed hope that the meeting between Modi and Trump will help in resolving the trade issues between the two countries.

"The trade issue is one of the focal points of the current US administration. They're looking at it with renewed vision. I don't see why the US administration won't look closely at trade with India. The India-US trade relationship is also growing," said Chakravarty.

Calling the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-howdy-modi-trump-and-pm-modi-could-sign-trade-deal-251028">US-India relationship</a> most important in the world, he said that the mutual bond has been benefiting both the countries.

"This is the most important bilateral relationship in the world. Several US leaders also accept this and have said publicly. For the US, I believe, this the most transformed relationship. For India, the relations have gone from nothing to where it is today in the last 20 years. The trade between India and the US stood at USD 5 billion in 2000, and today, it stands at almost USD 150 billion," Chakravarty said.

He said that Sunday's "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/diversity-foundation-of-our-vibrant-democracy-says-pm-modi-at-howdy-modi-251322">Howdy, Modi</a>" event in Houston has sent an "amazing" message across the world and hoped that it would help take the US-India relationship to new heights.

"The Houston event has taken the India-US relations to a new height. The message which has gone across India and the world is amazing," Chakravarty said, adding that the relationship is growing in every field including people to people contact, trade, science and technology and space.

Modi and Trump jointly addressed the 'Howdy, Modi!'&nbsp;event in Houston, Texas on Sunday.

The bonhomie between the two leaders was in full display at the event where they echoed similar sentiments on several issues including "radical Islamic terrorism", trade and defence.

The two leaders are scheduled to meet again on Tuesday afternoon in New York.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump share a great synergy and their second meeting within a span of two days will take the India-US relations to greater heights, said Consul General of India in New York, Sandeep Chakravarty, on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump share a great synergy and their second meeting within a span of two days will take the India-US relations to greater heights, said Consul General of India in New York, Sandeep Chakravarty, on Tuesday. "There is a great deal of synergy between the two leaders. They talk on the phone, meet on sidelines, they met in Houston the day before. Our relationship is on a continuous climb. They are going to meet again in a span of two days which shows that they value each other's friendship and relationship and they will take the relationship ahead," Chakravarty told ANI here. He also expressed hope that the meeting between Modi and Trump will help in resolving the trade issues between the two countries. "The trade issue is one of the focal points of the current US administration. They're looking at it with renewed vision. I don't see why the US administration won't look closely at trade with India. The India-US trade relationship is also growing," said Chakravarty. Calling the US-India relationship most important in the world, he said that the mutual bond has been benefiting both the countries. "This is the most important bilateral relationship in the world. Several US leaders also accept this and have said publicly. For the US, I believe, this the most transformed relationship. For India, the relations have gone from nothing to where it is today in the last 20 years. The trade between India and the US stood at USD 5 billion in 2000, and today, it stands at almost USD 150 billion," Chakravarty said. He said that Sunday's "Howdy, Modi" event in Houston has sent an "amazing" message across the world and hoped that it would help take the US-India relationship to new heights. "The Houston event has taken the India-US relations to a new height. The message which has gone across India and the world is amazing," Chakravarty said, adding that the relationship is growing in every field including people to people contact, trade, science and technology and space. Modi and Trump jointly addressed the 'Howdy, Modi!' event in Houston, Texas on Sunday. The bonhomie between the two leaders was in full display at the event where they echoed similar sentiments on several issues including "radical Islamic terrorism", trade and defence. The two leaders are scheduled to meet again on Tuesday afternoon in New York.

India-US share 'most important bilateral relationship in the world': Consul General of India in New York

Joe Walsh and Bill Weld, two of the three Republicans challenging President Donald Trump for their party's 2020 presidential nomination, are set to meet in a debate on Tuesday, hoping to bring attention to their long-shot candidacies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-hassan-rouhani-meeting-not-scheduled-as-speculation-swirls-251612">Trump </a>will not take part in the event in New York hosted by the website Business Insider, nor will the third candidate seeking the Republican nomination, former South Carolina governor and congressman Mark Sanford.

The debate featuring Walsh, a radio talk-show host and former US congressman from Illinois, and Weld, a former Massachusetts governor, is not sanctioned by the Republican Party, which has thrown its full support behind Trump. Sanford cited a scheduling conflict for missing the event.

Walsh, Weld and Sanford, in a joint article published in the Washington Post this month, called Trump "a serial self-promoter" who is steering the party away from "personal responsibility, fiscal sanity, and rule of law."

Trump is expected to coast to victory in his quest for the Republican nomination before facing the Democratic Party's nominee in the November 2020 election. A Sept. 16-20 Reuters/Ipsos poll showed that 82 per cent of registered Republicans approved of Trump's job performance.

Walsh, Weld, and Sanford complained about being shut out of the nomination contest. Republican Party officials in Alaska, Arizona, Kansas, Nevada and South Carolina already have said they would not host nominating contests in their states next year, cutting off any chance for the challengers to win delegates who will choose the Republican candidate at the party's convention.

"We're in the process of doing serious and lasting harm to the Republican Party brand," Sanford told Reuters on Friday. "We need to stand up and have a robust conversation about what it means to be Republicans."

Trump has dismissed his challengers as a "joke" and "laughingstock," calling them the "Three Stooges," a reference to a popular mid-20th-century comedy team that portrayed inept bunglers.

Asked to explain Trump's decision not to participate in the debate, Erin Perrine, a deputy communications director for the Trump campaign, said, "Pointless."

Walsh, 57, served in the House of Representatives for two years and then became a radio talk-show host. Weld, 74, touts a fiscally conservative record as well as his work on gay rights and environmental issues. He ran unsuccessfully for vice president in 2016 on the Libertarian Party's ticket

Joe Walsh and Bill Weld, two of the three Republicans challenging President Donald Trump for their party's 2020 presidential nomination, are set to meet in a debate on Tuesday, hoping to bring attention to their long-shot candidacies.

Joe Walsh and Bill Weld, two of the three Republicans challenging President Donald Trump for their party's 2020 presidential nomination, are set to meet in a debate on Tuesday, hoping to bring attention to their long-shot candidacies. Trump will not take part in the event in New York hosted by the website Business Insider, nor will the third candidate seeking the Republican nomination, former South Carolina governor and congressman Mark Sanford. The debate featuring Walsh, a radio talk-show host and former US congressman from Illinois, and Weld, a former Massachusetts governor, is not sanctioned by the Republican Party, which has thrown its full support behind Trump. Sanford cited a scheduling conflict for missing the event. Walsh, Weld and Sanford, in a joint article published in the Washington Post this month, called Trump "a serial self-promoter" who is steering the party away from "personal responsibility, fiscal sanity, and rule of law." Trump is expected to coast to victory in his quest for the Republican nomination before facing the Democratic Party's nominee in the November 2020 election. A Sept. 16-20 Reuters/Ipsos poll showed that 82 per cent of registered Republicans approved of Trump's job performance. Walsh, Weld, and Sanford complained about being shut out of the nomination contest. Republican Party officials in Alaska, Arizona, Kansas, Nevada and South Carolina already have said they would not host nominating contests in their states next year, cutting off any chance for the challengers to win delegates who will choose the Republican candidate at the party's convention. "We're in the process of doing serious and lasting harm to the Republican Party brand," Sanford told Reuters on Friday. "We need to stand up and have a robust conversation about what it means to be Republicans." Trump has dismissed his challengers as a "joke" and "laughingstock," calling them the "Three Stooges," a reference to a popular mid-20th-century comedy team that portrayed inept bunglers. Asked to explain Trump's decision not to participate in the debate, Erin Perrine, a deputy communications director for the Trump campaign, said, "Pointless." Walsh, 57, served in the House of Representatives for two years and then became a radio talk-show host. Weld, 74, touts a fiscally conservative record as well as his work on gay rights and environmental issues. He ran unsuccessfully for vice president in 2016 on the Libertarian Party's ticket

Two of Trump's Republican challengers to debate without him

Iranian President Hassan&nbsp;Rouhani&nbsp;met French President Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;on the sidelines of the UN&nbsp;General Assembly on Monday.

Macron&nbsp;plans to&nbsp;meet&nbsp;US&nbsp;President Donald Trump on Tuesday as he seeks to defuse tensions between Washington and Tehran.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani met French President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Monday. Macron plans to meet US President Donald Trump on Tuesday as he seeks to defuse tensions between Washington and Tehran.

Rouhani, Macron meet at UN summit

China on Monday called on developed countries to lead by example in reducing emissions as dozens of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/time-for-talks-is-over-world-needs-to-act-now-pm-modi-at-un-climate-change-summit-251563"> world leaders&nbsp;gathered at the United Nations Climate Summit</a> on Monday to discuss measures to try and slowdown ever-more dangerous trends in climate change.&nbsp;

China which is&nbsp;the world's biggest carbon emitter by far but also a leader in renewables was represented by foreign minister Wang Yi at the summit.

The Chinese foreign minister&nbsp;said:&nbsp;"We must honour our commitments, follow through on the Paris Agreement and its implementation guidelines and see to it that both the summit and the COP25 will produce positive outcomes that will we inject fresh impetus into the post-2020 multilateral process."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Yi also took a dig at the US saying that it would continue to fight global warming without "certain parties".

"The withdrawal of certain parties will not shake the collective will of the international community nor will it possibly reverse the historical trend of international cooperation," Yi said in reference to the US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement under President Donald Trump.

Watch: Young climate activists keep pressure on world leaders

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The Chinese foreign minister also told world leaders that his country&nbsp;would honour its obligations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement.&nbsp;However, he failed to make any fresh pledges to curb carbon dioxide emissions.

He also vowed that China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) -&nbsp;President Xi Jinping's controversial plan to rebuild the old Silk Road to connect China with Asia, Europe and beyond -&nbsp;would be green and sustainable.

"We will continue to jointly build a Green Belt and Road through the BRI International Green Development Coalition and other platforms. We are mobilising stronger support for international cooperation against climate change," Yi said.

China had previously concentrated on reducing emissions from its heavy industrial sectors, while maintaining high levels of economic growth, but the approach has been subject to diminishing returns.

It recently changed plans to "proactively promote" nature-based solutions such as reforestation and the expansion of grasslands and wetlands. Total forest reserves in the country rose by 4.56 billion cubic meters between 2005 and 2018, and forests now account for just under 23 per cent of total land.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

China on Monday called on developed countries to lead by example in reducing emissions as dozens of world leaders gathered at the United Nations Climate Summit on Monday to discuss measures to try and slowdown ever-more dangerous trends in climate change.

China on Monday called on developed countries to lead by example in reducing emissions as dozens of world leaders gathered at the United Nations Climate Summit on Monday to discuss measures to try and slowdown ever-more dangerous trends in climate change. China which is the world's biggest carbon emitter by far but also a leader in renewables was represented by foreign minister Wang Yi at the summit. The Chinese foreign minister said: "We must honour our commitments, follow through on the Paris Agreement and its implementation guidelines and see to it that both the summit and the COP25 will produce positive outcomes that will we inject fresh impetus into the post-2020 multilateral process." Meanwhile, Yi also took a dig at the US saying that it would continue to fight global warming without "certain parties". "The withdrawal of certain parties will not shake the collective will of the international community nor will it possibly reverse the historical trend of international cooperation," Yi said in reference to the US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement under President Donald Trump. Watch: Young climate activists keep pressure on world leaders × The Chinese foreign minister also told world leaders that his country would honour its obligations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement. However, he failed to make any fresh pledges to curb carbon dioxide emissions. He also vowed that China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) - President Xi Jinping's controversial plan to rebuild the old Silk Road to connect China with Asia, Europe and beyond - would be green and sustainable. "We will continue to jointly build a Green Belt and Road through the BRI International Green Development Coalition and other platforms. We are mobilising stronger support for international cooperation against climate change," Yi said. China had previously concentrated on reducing emissions from its heavy industrial sectors, while maintaining high levels of economic growth, but the approach has been subject to diminishing returns. It recently changed plans to "proactively promote" nature-based solutions such as reforestation and the expansion of grasslands and wetlands. Total forest reserves in the country rose by 4.56 billion cubic meters between 2005 and 2018, and forests now account for just under 23 per cent of total land. (With inputs from agencies)

China's foreign minister Wang Yi takes swipe at US during UN climate summit

The Indian Diaspora Is One Of The Richest & The Most Influential Communities In The U.S.

Gravitas: The might of Indian Diaspora

The United States will co-host an event on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly on China's treatment of Muslim minorities including ethnic Uighurs, the US State Department said in a statement on Monday.

The United States will co-host an event on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly on China's treatment of Muslim minorities including ethnic Uighurs, the US State Department said in a statement on Monday. The event on Tuesday will be hosted by US Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan and will feature personal stories of victims, the statement said. It did not identify other hosts. "China’s repression campaign includes, among other abuses, the mass detention of more than one million individuals in internment camps since April 2017," the State Department said. UN experts and activists say at least 1 million Uighurs and members of other largely Muslim minority groups have been detained in camps in the remote Xinjiang region. Beijing describes complexes in Xinjiang as "vocational training centres" helping to stamp out extremism and give people new skills. Washington has been weighing how to confront China on the issue at the annual gathering of world leaders in New York this week. On Sunday, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo urged all countries in the world to resist China's demands to repatriate Uighurs. Pompeo said Beijing's campaign in the western Chinese region of Xinjiang was an "attempt to erase its own citizens." Pompeo and US Vice President Mike Pence could also address China's treatment of the Uighurs at events this week, but a final decision on any US remarks "is expected to hinge on how the trade issue is going," an administration official said last week. China and the United States are fighting a trade war and are set to resume trade talks in October.

US to co-host event at United Nations on China's treatment of Uighurs

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